Fundación Ximena Rico Llano
The comuna Niquitao expels many kids onto the streets of Medellín, sometimes because of abuse, other times because of crime, and now because of urban guerrilla warfare. The Fundación Ximena Rico provides a first class pre-school for kids from the neighborhood, hoping thus to break the cycle of violence and despair.
When Ximena Rico was 9 years old, gangsters murdered her. Instead of seeking revenge, her parents decided to create a foundation to help the babies of Niquitao. The program has grown every year since, and now serves some 230 kids from 0-5 years old.
Each day the children arrive punctually at 8 AM -- if the mothers do not bring them on time, the kids can’t come in. This strict schedule commits the mothers to their kids, teaches that school is important, and trains mothers in following up. After being late once or twice, and having to spend the day in the city with their babies, the mothers always show up on time.
Upon arrival, all the kids bathe -- not only do they learn hygiene this way, but it also provides a chance for staff to diagnose abuse (bruises) and health (skin condition). After the shower, all the kids go to their classes.
The school is first class, as good as any in the first world. The youngest kids learn by playing, while the older kids begin classes in letters, numbers, and social studies. They will begin elementary school well prepared. The school’s educational philosophy comes from Vigotsky and Piaget, but the most important techniques are love and respect for the kids. Thanks to students from various universities who volunteer as teachers, the program keeps up a good student-teacher ratio.
Mothers can also educate themselves at the Fundación. Working as volunteers, they learn to take care of babies and how to show affection. Staff try to undermine mothers’ “magical thinking,” -- like the idea that a bath will give a baby colic. In a small business up the street, mothers learn trades and make contacts that might get them a permanent job -- they also earn a decent salary. In contrast with many other programs, Ximena Rico has not found parents to be “difficult” or “stubborn.” When treated with respect, they are disposed to learn.
For years, the Fundación did have problems with families -- but only when it gave too much away. Today, the program never gives clothing to the mothers -- instead it sells it at super-low cost. Staff do not accept excuses when parents don’t show up for meetings, or when they show up late. Parents, the program has found, live up to the expectations that staff have for them.
The Fundación employs a doctor and a dentist for the kids and their families. The most common medical problems are skin infections and digestive illnesses.
The Foundation sent us an update in 2008, and you can read it here.
Fundación Ximena Rico Llano
Maria Cecilia Geale, Presidenta
Calle 47 #36A-88
Medellín, Antioquia
Colombia
217 3774 o 217 4969
fax: 217 4254
ximena.rico@gmail.com
